Flowerbud News

Category: General News

  • Niger Speaker laments killing of soldiers by bandits

    Niger Speaker laments killing of soldiers by bandits

    By Mohammed Baba Busu

    The Speaker, Niger House of Assembly, Alhaji Abdulmalik Sarkindaji, has described the killing of soldiers in Kwanan Dutse and Gulbin Boka communities of Mariga Local Government Area as barbaric, wicked, and inhumane.

    The tragic event occurred on Tuesday.

    The speaker, who spoke with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Minna on Wednesday expressed sorrow over the death of the soldiers, who had long been providing security for the entire local government.

    Sarkindaji observed that the act represented a serious catastrophe not only for the military but also for the people of his constituency and the state as a whole.

    He said, “I received the news of the killing of these promising young officers with a heavy heart, who have kept my constituency safe for a long time now.

    “This singular attack is a significant setback for the farming communities in Mariga Local Government Area. My entire constituency is under siege.”

    The speaker pointed out that the attacks on the two military camps in the area had created a substantial challenge to the security situation in his constituency and the state at large.

    While observing that in spite of the government’s efforts to address the lingering troubling situation, Sarkindaji said, “these criminals have continued to unleash terror on the people.”

    The speaker stated that the attack on the military was a deliberate attempt to dislodge them from the communities, allowing bandits to have free access to the area for their criminal activities, including kidnapping, rape, murder, and cattle rustling.

    “The unfortunate reality is that these wicked and heartless elements come from neighboring states to carry out their attacks on communities within our state,” Sarkindaji decried.

    Expressing his deepest sympathy to the military regarding the unfortunate incident, the speaker urged them not to be discouraged in their mission to keep the entire state safe from criminals.

    He assured that the state government would continue to support the military and other security agencies to enable them discharge their mandate diligently.

    Sarkindaji called on the military to ensure that the perpetrators of such heinous acts were tracked down and brought to justice, urging, “they must not escape accountability for their nefarious actions.”

    NAN

  • Sule Lamido Wrong on Tinubu’s June 12 Role, haunted by his anti-democratic past – TDF

    Sule Lamido Wrong on Tinubu’s June 12 Role, haunted by his anti-democratic past – TDF

    Flowerbud News/ The Democratic Front (TDF) has lent its voice to the controversy raised by former Governor of Jigawa State, Sule Lamido, over the role President Bola Tinubu allegedly played in issues surrounding the annulment of the June 12 presidential election of 1993.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Mallam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo, the pro-democracy group argued that Lamido did not provide any convincing proof to back up his claim against the President.

    “We note that Lamido could not establish any factual evidence while narrating his falsified account of the June debacle when accusing President Tinubu of supporting the annulment of the June 12 election. He did nothing beyond mere speculation and gave conflicting testimonies in his Arise TV interview.

    “We therefore hasten to say that the former governor of Jigawa State exhibited traits of irresponsibility and selective amnesia, to have claimed that President Tinubu’s membership of the Senate that was addressed by the then military President Ibrahim Babangida in 1993, was enough evidence of his Tinubu’s support for the annulment of the election.

    “It is pertinent to recall that former military President Babangida undertook a wide range of consultations with prominent Nigerians in his desperate bid to douse the political impasse and tension that greeted the annulment of the election that was acclaimed to be the freest, fairest, and most credible in the country’s history.

    “We also remember that top among the notable personalities that were invited to meet with the then military President on the issue, were the late Sultan of Sokoto Ibrahim Dasuki, the late Oni of Ife Okunade Sijuade, the matriarch of the Awolowo family, late Hannah Awolowo, and the late Alhaja Abibatu Mogaji among several other Nigerians.

    “In our view, Lamido displayed a shallow knowledge of the historical circumstances that contrived the visit of the aforementioned personalities to the then military dictator, by scapegoating the late Alhaja Mogaji, the mother of President Tinubu, in a mischievous attempt to slander the President.

    “The role President Tinubu played in the struggle to actualise the popular mandate of MKO Abiola after the annulment was legendary and is of public knowledge. Tinubu was a major financier as well as an activist in the struggle to pressure the military junta to relinquish political power to Abiola. He was detained and also marked for elimination before he fled into exile,” the statement added.

    TDF wondered why Lamido’s position on President Tinubu’s role in the pro democracy struggle was different from that of active participants in the struggle.

    It said: “Prominent activists in the June 12 struggle, like Prof. Wole Soyinka, Prof. Bolaji Akinyemi and Femi Falana (SAN), etc, have repeatedly paid glowing tribute and honour to Tinubu’s immense contributions and efforts to the democratic struggle, from exile. This undisputable pedigree of credit and recognition of his contributions to the June 12 struggle, more than anything, renders Sule Lamido’s accusations against the President, spurious, groundless, meritless, unfounded, and untenable.

    “Furthermore, The Democratic Front (TDF) finds it appropriate to assert that Sule Lamido’s grudge and bitterness against President Tinubu dates back to the 1991 governorship election in Jigawa State, in which he contested the SDP primary alongside Alh. Ali Sa’ad Birnin- Kudu, who was favoured by the late Gen. Shehu Yar’adua, the head of President Tinubu’s erstwhile political family.

    “Since his defeat in the SDP governorship primary in 1991, Lamido was alleged to have resolved to sabotage the defunct Social Democratic Party. As the party’s National Secretary, he aided the cancellation of presidential primaries that Yar’adua took part in and actively joined other compromised members of the National Working Committee (NWC) of the party to support the annulment of Abiola’s presidential victory.

    “At a time, President Tinubu and other pro-democracy activists aligned with late Moshood Abiola against the annulment of the election, the compromised SDP leadership, which Sule Lamido was part of, connived with the military regime to frustrate Abiola’s attempts to mobilise against Babangida’s decision to annul the election.”

    The group insisted that it was Sule Lamido who could be accused of sabotaging Abiola, even as National Secretary of the defunct SDP.

  • President Tinubu’s Visit to Benue, Mark of True Leadership, Renewed Hope

    President Tinubu’s Visit to Benue, Mark of True Leadership, Renewed Hope

    Flowerbud News/ The Tinubu Stakeholders Forum (TSF) has described President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State as a gesture that exemplifies genuine statesmanship, compassion, and a deep commitment to national unity and security.

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Ahmad Sajoh, and Secretary, Danjuma Sada, the group argued that the President’s presence on the ground sent a strong message of solidarity and responsibility.

    The statement reads: “For us, the visit was not merely symbolic—it has catalysed new levels of stakeholder engagement, community mobilisation, and a coordinated pushback against the forces threatening peace and coexistence in the state.

    “In a decisive move during his visit, President Tinubu directed all security agencies to arrest the perpetrators behind the killings in Benue and ensure they face the full weight of the law.

    “He emphasised that the government must protect its citizens and that justice must be swift and uncompromising. The President also urged the Benue State Government to establish a peace and reconciliation committee to help foster dialogue among communities and address longstanding grievances fueling the violence.

    “Contrary to politically motivated criticisms, President Tinubu has demonstrated emotional equity and responsiveness, offering comfort to victims and inspiring a collective resolve among local and national actors to address the root causes of insecurity in the region.

    “We urge critics to adopt a historical and objective perspective. The situation in Benue did not start today, and it will take honest dialogue, committed leadership, and long-term collaboration to rebuild trust and security.

    “We dare say that President Tinubu’s actions reflect a clear understanding of this reality, and his administration is already taking steps to strengthen community resilience and enhance security operations in the affected areas.”

    TSF added that it stood firmly behind the president and called on all well-meaning Nigerians to join hands in the fight against terror and support national efforts at restoring peace, justice, and stability in Benue and beyond.

  • IPUNEC President Condoles Kwara Over Senator Adebayo’s Death, Describes Him as Iconic Leader

     

    Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, a respected public affairs champion and President of the Igbaja Progressive Union National Executive Council (IPUNEC), has expressed deep sorrow over the death of Senator Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a former governor of Kwara State and elder statesman.

    In a condolence message, Dr. Alabi commiserated with the Adebayo family, the Igbaja community, and the entire people of Kwara State, describing the late leader as “an icon of integrity, vision, and selfless service whose life made a lasting impact on our state and nation.”

    Senator Adebayo passed away in the early hours of Wednesday in Abuja at the age of 84. Born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government Area of Kwara State, he served as Governor of Kwara State in 1983 and later as a senator. He was also appointed Minister of Communications during President Olusegun Obasanjo’s administration.

    Dr. Alabi described Adebayo as a beacon of leadership and dignity, noting that he exemplified the values of honesty, courage, and service to humanity throughout his public life.

    “Senator Adebayo’s legacy as a principled and visionary leader will remain indelible in the hearts of all Kwarans and Nigerians who value justice and good governance,” she said.

    He urged today’s leaders to draw inspiration from his exemplary life and commitment to the development of society.

    While offering prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul, Dr. Alabi prayed for strength and comfort for the bereaved family and the Igbaja community. “May the Lord grant his family the fortitude to bear this great loss, and may his legacy continue to guide our path,” she added.

    The passing of Senator Adebayo marks the end of a significant chapter in the political and developmental history of Kwara State.

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  • OmoBarca to host Labour Party General Assembly in Ajeromi Ifelodun constituency

    OmoBarca to host Labour Party General Assembly in Ajeromi Ifelodun constituency

    By Flowerbud News/ The Labour Party is set to host a pivotal General Assembly in Ajeromi Ifelodun Local Government Area (LGA) on Saturday, June 28th, 2025. The event, scheduled to take place at 13 Odofin Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos, will commence at 11:00 am.

    Renowned philanthropist and Labour Party stalwart, Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima (OmoBarca) will serve as the chief host for this gathering. The assembly is expected to bring together party faithful, stakeholders, and community leaders to discuss the party’s future and chart a course for collective progress.

    The event will provide a platform for meaningful discussions, networking, and decision making, allowing members and supporters to engage with the party’s leadership and contribute to shaping the party’s agenda.

    A strong turnout is anticipated, and all members and supporters of the Labour Party in Ajeromi Ifelodun LGA are cordially invited to attend. For further information, interested individuals can contact the Labour Party Secretariat or Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima’s office.

    Event Details:

    Date: Saturday, June 28th, 2025
    Time: 11:00 am
    Venue: 13 Odofin Street, Olodi Apapa, Lagos State.

    Chief Host: Hon. Francis Barthlomew Omowale Chima (OmoBarca)

  • Ex-Kwara Gov., Communications Minister, Cornelius Adebayo Dies at 84

    Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo

    Former governor of Kwara State and one-time minister of communications, Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, is dead.

    He died at the age of 84.

    He passed away early Wednesday morning in Abuja, according to information from his family.

    Adebayo, who was born on February 24, 1941, in Igbaja, Kwara State, served as governor of the state in 1983.

    Before then, he was elected as a senator in 1979 under the Unity Party of Nigeria.

    Cornelius Adebayo, between 1975 and 1978, was commissioner for education in Kwara and was known for pushing reforms in the sector.

    In the 1990s, he joined the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), a group of activists who opposed military rule and fought to reclaim the mandate believed to have been given to MKO Abiola in the annulled 1993 presidential election.

    That same year, Adebayo rejected an offer to serve as a minister under General Sani Abacha.

    In 1995, a bomb blast in Ilorin led to his arrest alongside other NADECO members.

    The following year, he fled to Canada for a short exile when reports said the military was once again targeting him.

    Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo, a distinguished figure in Nigerian politics and governance, has navigated various roles throughout his career, leaving a profound impact on education, telecommunications, and infrastructure development in the country.

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  • Group Lauds Presidency For Improving Access To Consumer Credit In Nigeria

    Group Lauds Presidency For Improving Access To Consumer Credit In Nigeria

    Flowerbud News/ The Tinubu Media Volunteers have applauded President Bola Tinubu’s administration for enabling more Nigerians to have access to consumer credit through the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP).

    In a statement signed by its Chairman, Chukwudi Enekwechi, the group noted that it was remarkable that over 100,000 Nigerians have benefited from the initiative in just about a year.

    “It is also remarkable that CREDICORP, as an initiative of the Tinubu administration, is meant to raise the social status of many Nigerians by granting them access to credit, which was hitherto unthinkable.

    “Out of 100,201 persons who have benefited from the latest initiative, 35,000 civil servants were included as beneficiaries.

    “Some of the goods that were accessed include vehicles, solar home systems, digital devices, home improvements items, equipment and machinery and other essentials consumer items.

    “We dare say that this is the first time beneficiaries of the consumer credit initiative have access to it, and this is a major breakthrough in a country where access to formal credit facilities remains a herculean challenge.

    We are, however, aware that for consumer credit to make a real difference in the economy, it must reach 50 per cent of the country’s GDP, but it is gratifying that the administration has taken the first step to institutionalize the laudable scheme.

    “We acknowledge that the initiative aligns with the administration’s vision to support local goods and vehicles production, eliminate corruption by reducing the desperation associated with lack and a deliberate policy to empower Nigerians with necessary tools for improved life.

    “To us, this is a life-changing scheme that would greatly uplift the livelihood of millions of Nigerians, and we commend the President for setting the ball rolling,” it added.

    The group urged managers of the initiative to ramp up their process to ensure that more Nigerians benefit either as consumers or service providers.

     

  • Sierra Leone’s Bio Succeeds Nigeria’s Tinubu as Chair of ECOWAS Authority

    Sierra Leone’s Bio Succeeds Nigeria’s Tinubu as Chair of ECOWAS Authority

    By Paul Ejime

    West African leaders at their 67th Ordinary Summit in Abuja on Saturday 22 June 2025 chose Sierra Leone’s President Julius Maada Bio as the new rotational Chairman of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State and Government for the next one year.

    He succeds Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu who served for two terms from 2023.

    A retired army Brigadier, Bio, 61, ruled Sierra Leone as military head of state from January to March 1996.

    As civilian politician he won the presidential election in 2018 and was reelected in a bitterly contested vote in 2023.

    The post-election tensions involving two government reported military coups attempts are lingering with Bio’s immediate predecessor Bai Koroma exiled to Nigeria.

    Tinubu inherited an ECOWAS inflicted by a resurgent of military incursions in regional politics with four of ECOWAS’ 15 member States now ruled by military juntas.

    Three of the military rulers have formed the Alliance of Sahel States, AES and pulled their countries – Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger out of ECOWAS.

    ECOWAS is 50 this year and negotiations under Tinubu’s leadership to bring back the breakaway countries have so far failed.

    This was after an unpopular decision by the regional bloc to use military force to restore contitutional order in Niger after a military coup, which the organisation failed to follow through.

  • Dr. Alabi Salutes Olupo of Ajase-Ipo on 4th Coronation Anniversary

    HRM, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo

     

    Dr. Oluwatoyin Alabi, a renowned progress advocate and public affairs champion as well as President of the Igbaja Progressive Union National Executive Council (IPUNEC), has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, the Olupo of Ajase-Ipo, on the occasion of his fourth coronation anniversary.

    In a goodwill message issued on Friday, Dr. Alabi, who is also the CEO of Integrated Catering Company Limited and a Category ‘A’ member of the Port Harcourt Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, described the monarch as a rare combination of intellectual depth, traditional wisdom, and visionary leadership.

    He praised Oba Alebiosu, who is also the Chancellor of Kwara State University of Education, for his calm yet impactful reign, which has fostered unity, progress, and development in Ajase-Ipo and its environs since his ascension in 2021.

    “Kabiyesi is not only a revered traditional ruler but also a respected legal luminary whose contributions to education, justice, and leadership continue to inspire many,” Dr. Alabi noted.

    Highlighting the monarch’s dual roles, he commended the Olupo’s ability to harmonise cultural heritage with modern governance, using the throne as a platform for promoting intellectual growth, inclusive leadership, and community advancement.

    “Oba Alebiosu has demonstrated that traditional authority can be a force for innovation, education, and peacebuilding,” he added.

    Dr. Alabi further lauded the monarch’s efforts in engaging youth, promoting education, and sustaining peace across the region, describing his reign as “quietly transformative and deeply respected.”

    “As Kabiyesi marks this significant milestone, I join the good people of Ajase-Ipo in praying for his continued wisdom, good health, and a long, impactful reign,” the statement concluded.

    Oba Ismail Yahaya Alebiosu, a distinguished legal practitioner, became Olupo of Ajase-Ipo in 2021. His reign has been widely celebrated for its focus on peace, educational development, and progressive community engagement.